By Emmanuella Oghenetega
The Federal Government has allocated funds for the expansion of Primary Healthcare Centres, to ensure access to quality healthcare for the vulnerable populations, as well as approve and recommend the adoption of the BHCPF 2.0 Guideline to enhance the administration, disbursement, and monitoring of the Fund.
This move by the Federal Government, aims at strengthening the healthcare service of the country.
The funding which has been approved for disbursement to state and local governments, as well as over 8,000 primary healthcare centres, demonstrates the government’s commitment to improving healthcare services despite facing significant funding challenges.
This was disclosed at the 10th Ministerial Oversight Committee (MOC) meeting for the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund on Wednesday in Abuja,
In line with Nigeria’s Health Sector Renewal Initiative and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s endorsement of the Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp), the MOC reaffirmed its commitment to the ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening the BHCPF.
Significant progress was made, these includs; the completion of the revised BHCPF Guideline, restructuring of the fund’s operational architecture, and enhancement of governance frameworksto improve efficiency, transparency, and
accountability.
During the course of the meeting, the MOC acknowledged also, the dedication in service of Dr. Mukhtar, Secretary of the Committee.
This, is following his appointment as a Permanent Secretary designate.
In an interview session with journalist, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, emphasised that the government is exploring alternative funding sources to ensure the continuation of essential healthcare services.
“The allocation of ₦32 billion is a significant step towards achieving this goal. It is expected to have a positive impact on the country’s healthcare outcomes, particularly in areas such as maternal and child health, malaria control, and tuberculosis treatment.
“We are trying to live within our means, and it is not appropriate for external organisations to make statements that imply a shortage of strategies.”
“The allocated funds will be channelled through the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF), which is a critical component of the country’s healthcare financing system.
“In addition to the funding allocation, the government is also working to address the challenges faced by state governments in accessing funds due to issues with the Accountant-General’s office.
“The new Accountant-General is expected to resolve these bottlenecks, ensuring timely access to resources.”
“The allocation of ₦32 billion to boost healthcare services is a welcome development for Nigeria’s healthcare sector. It demonstrates the government’s commitment to improving healthcare outcomes and ensuring that all Nigerians have access to quality healthcare services,” he added.
